He was caught on tape red-handed, negotiating a quid pro quo with Yedioth Ahronoth publisher Arnon Mozes for more favorable broadsheet coverage in return for legislation prohibiting distribution of the free daily Israel Hayom, YA’s main competitor, owned by Netanyahu supporter Sheldon Adelson.

On Sunday, the Ministerial Committee for Legislation approved the proposed bill. Despite strong objections from Israel’s law enforcement community, the measure introduced by Likudnik MK David Amsalem passed its first reading.

Two more approved by majority vote are required for enactment. The measure is being fast-tracked. It could become law by month’s end.

Its newest version lets the attorney general take police recommendations for an indictment under consideration in cases overseen by a prosecutor, prohibiting public disclosure, suppressing information Israelis have a right to know.

Clearly, the bill was created with Netanyahu in mind. Are supportive MKs rigging things to compromise the ability of the law enforcement community to do its job properly – an effort to absolve him?

Last week, MK Benny Begin was removed from the Interior Committee for opposing retroactive application of the law.

According to Amsalem, most “cases in which the police decide to write a recommendation saying there is an evidentiary basis (to press charges) are closed by the prosecution.” By proceeding publicly, a “man’s entire life is ruined because he’s already (considered) guilty.”